Burning Palms Track

Overview

This is the classic out-and-back drop from Garawarra Farm to Burning Palms Beach: about 3.5 km total (2.2 miles) with roughly 226 m of gain, taking most hikers 1.5–2 hours. It’s short, but the return climb is no joke—expect long stair runs and a steady grind back to the car.

Route

From Garawarra Farm carpark, head down the Burgh Ridge Track through coastal heath and shaded forest. You’ll quickly trade ridge views for sea breeze as the trail dives toward the beach. At the sand, wander north to the cluster of heritage shacks—quirky, photogenic reminders of the park’s beach-cabin history. When you’re ready, turn around and retrace your steps; the uphill is the crux.

Highlights

You get a lot in a small package: big coastal scenery, an atmospheric forest approach, and that unique shack community only reachable on foot. On weekends, the local surf life saving club is often active, which makes a mid-hike dip more realistic if conditions are friendly.

Know Before You Go

Figure Eight Pools sits beyond the beach on the rock platform—attempt only at low tide with low swell, and never turn your back on the ocean. Sections can be slippery when wet. There’s no water on the track and no facilities at the rock platforms; toilets are at Garawarra Farm. A vehicle entry fee applies, and the final access is a potholed dirt road that’s generally fine for 2WD.

Best Time to Hike

Aim for an early start to beat heat on the climb and to find parking; weekends around midday are the busiest. The park is open during set hours (typically morning to evening), so plan your turnaround with the gate time in mind. If you’re eyeing the rock platforms, time your day to the tide first and everything else second.

Flora and wildlife

Expect coastal heath and palms near the beach. Keep an eye out for wallabies in the quieter forest stretches.